1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “脚” (pronounced “ashi” or “kyaku”) primarily means “leg” or “foot.” It can also refer to “base” or “support” in various contexts.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “脚” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for “foot” (足) with the phonetic component “jue” (月), which contributes to its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “脚” is 足 (foot), which is commonly associated with words related to legs, feet, and movement.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 脚本 (きゃくほん, “kyakuhon”) – script (for a play or film)
- 脚立 (きゃたつ, “kyatatsu”) – step ladder
- 脚力 (きゃくりょく, “kyakuryoku”) – leg strength
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼はサッカーをするために脚を鍛えています。 (かれはサッカーをするためにあしをきたえています。) – He is training his legs to play soccer.
- この脚立は高いところに届くのに便利です。 (このきゃたつはたかいところにとどくのにべんりです。) – This step ladder is convenient for reaching high places.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 足 (あし, “ashi”) – foot/leg, but can also refer to the entire lower limb.
- 腿 (もも, “momo”) – thigh, specifically referring to the upper part of the leg.
Antonyms:
- 頭 (あたま, “atama”) – head, which is the opposite end of the body.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “脚” is significant in various aspects of Japanese culture, including traditional arts like dance and martial arts, where leg movement is crucial.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 足元を見る (あしもとをみる, “ashimoto o miru”) – to look at someone’s feet; meaning to take advantage of someone’s weakness.
- 足りるを知る (たりるをしる, “tariru o shiru”) – to know sufficiency; meaning to be content with what one has.